5 of the Best Beach Destinations Near Disneyland

I’ve always said that Disneyland is hard work. While magical and memorable and fun beyond the ordinary, the parks can wear on you. You’re in luck, however, because Southern California is home to some of the most amazing beaches in the world. Consider this inexpensive and relaxing add-on to your trip.

Here, I’ve detailed 5 of the best Orange County beaches. I’ve also researched San Diego options for you with information on the zoo and other destinations.

The main idea: Located in Newport Beach, Balboa Island is old school charm. Park on the main land and walk to the ferry. For a small fee ($1 per adult, $.50 for ages 5-11 and free for under 5), board the boat along with a few cars and travel to the island. On the nearby Balboa Peninsula, enjoy the beach, the Balboa Fun Zone or walk the pier.

What’s unique: I like Balboa Island because it encompasses many beach experiences in one. Ride a boat, walk an island and visit a pier all in one stop. Frozen bananas reign supreme here as far as snacks go. The most famous spot to buy them is called Sugar ‘n Spice – on the island – on Marine Avenue. Don’t miss out!

The main idea: Located on the north end of Laguna Beach, Crescent Bay is one of the most beautiful Southern California beaches I’ve ever seen. Only 1/4 mile in length, it’s secluded and scenic. About 120 yards into the ocean sits Seal Rock, named for the seals and sea lions who adorn it, and you can hear them from the beach.

What’s unique: This area has excellent tide pools for exploration. The water is calm because of the bay and allows for great snorkeling.

Preparation

And, since you already packed so much for Disneyland itself, you don’t want to be straddled with beach gear, too. Here are some tips on beach visits and how to minimize your haul to the sand.

Rent gear – You can find everything you need including beach blankets, chairs and toys.

Bring a sweater – SoCal beaches are beautiful for the day, but like Disneyland, the evening becomes chilly. Check the weather before departing and when in doubt, pack a sweater if you plan to stay late.

Simplify – Because Disneyland is so stimulating and busy, encourage simplicity in your beach visit. Less toys and ‘stuff’ will help you all relax and enjoy the natural beauty California provides.

Explore the tide pools – A veritable theme park of its own, sea critters gather along rocks and jetties just waiting for you to explore. Remember the rules, however, and leave the ocean as you found it.

Pack the baby powder – A sprinkle of baby powder on dry feet will remove sand magically and will keep your hotel room looking less like the beach you just visited. Let kids dry, apply powder and brush off skin before climbing into the car.

A beach day can cost you less money than a meal at Disneyland if you plan it right. Pick up sandwiches and snacks en route, use hotel towels, and focus on the natural beauty of Southern California. Bring a book and let the kids play. Unwind. You’ve earned it!

Photography

Bonus tip: Consider hiring a professional photographer to take photos of your family if you add on this beach destination idea. I’ve done so for several of our vacations and I cherish those photos today.

27 COMMENTS

Hello,
We will be visiting CA for the first time in April…..will be doing Disneyland for 2 or 3 days then would like to go to the beach, especially crescent bay so that we can take my son snorkeling. Are there places in between that you would staying so that we could go to either on any given day or would it be easier to stay as close as possible to Disneyland for that part and then someplace closer to crescent bay for the remainder?

Laguna Beach I don’t think is “wheel chair” accessible but I do know that you can get really close to beach before you might have to pick the wheelchair up and put down about two feet off the “deck”. Definitely take an umbrella though! Sunny California. Good luck!

Crescent Bay isn’t super easy to park at. Try the park just north of it for the best options. Newport Beach has more dedicated parking. All Southern California beaches get crowded during the summer, but it’s not unbearable by any means.

Hello, we are coming for a visit from Alaska for the first time bringing our kids that are 14. Would love to stay on the beach and be able to travel to Disneyland as we please. looking for a nice place to stay on the beach that’s safe and clean. any suggestions? Thank you in advance…. Livinthealaskandream

Newport beach such an amazing place to spend your weekends and even the events were adorable there. Even i attended birthday parties and other events there and that 32′ Bayliner Contessa Sportfisher is amazing.

Crescent Bay is beautiful, and great if you’ve got small kids. The tide pools will keep them occupied, if being in the water isnt enuf, and the bay helps to keep them from wondering to far, but if you want good surfing go to Huntington Beach